FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 20, 2025
CONTACT
Dave Baron, President
dmbaron@deckandbaronlaw.com
VISIT KANKAKEE COUNTY ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP TRANSITION AND APPOINTS ANGELINA GEAR INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
KANKAKEE COUNTY, IL — Visit Kankakee County, the region’s destination marketing organization, is preparing for a leadership transition following the resignation of Executive Director Nicole Gavin. After four years of dedicated service, Nicole has accepted a new opportunity that aligns with her professional growth and passion for community impact. The Board of Directors expresses its appreciation for Nicole’s contributions and wishes her continued success.
“Nicole has been a valued advocate for Kankakee County. She not only led the organization through a period of change, but she also established a strong foundation for our future, rooted in the idea that our community does better when we work together.” said Board President, Dave Baron. During Gavin’s tenure, Visit Kankakee County shifted to a membership-model of funding, crafted unique marketing campaigns to attract new visitors, and administered an impactful tourism grant program that has funded numerous local assets such as Bourbonnais’ year-round skating rink, Kankakee’s East Riverwalk and Bradley’s 315 Sports Park.
To ensure a seamless transition, the Board of Directors has appointed Angelina Gear as Interim Executive Director. Gear, who has served as the organization’s Sales and Marketing Manager for the past three years brings a wealth of knowledge, energy, passion, and proven experience in destination marketing and community engagement. “We’re truly excited to continue working with Angelina,” said Baron. “She’s been a visible and driving force behind many of our most successful campaigns. Her creativity, professionalism, and commitment to her community are apparent to all who meet her.”
After moving away for over fifteen years, Gear returned to Kankakee County with a renewed appreciation for the region she calls home, and her passion for this community motivates her work every day.
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible partners and local leaders who believe in the power of tourism to achieve economic growth,” said Gear. “I look forward to continuing that momentum – telling our county’s story, attracting new visitors, and helping our communities from Momence to Manteno to Herscher, and everything in between, thrive. I truly believe in the mission of Visit Kankakee County, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the community I love.”
Baron added, “The Board is committed to supporting Angelina and the entire team as they continue their important work of showcasing all that makes Kankakee County special. We’re confident that Visit Kankakee County’s future is bright.”
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About Visit Kankakee County
Visit Kankakee County works to market and sell Kankakee County as a premier business and leisure destination enhancing our community image through digital media, advertising, marketing, public relations and group sales.